“Almost” may be the saddest word in the English language. No matter what you pair it with, something misses the mark. “Almost perfection” is not quite there. An “almost win” doesn’t count. “Almost passing” is a worse-than-lousy grade….
Grab your favorite brew and visit a few minutes with Encouragement from Living History. That sums up my blog: thoughts grounded in the Bible, sprinkled with interesting tidbits from history, all applied to life today. Readers say, “I learn something new every time I read your blog.” Here’s an open invitation to sit a few minutes now and come back often to share your thoughts.
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What Should You Ask God For?
If you could ask God for one thing, what would it be?…
Pulling Back the Curtain on Jesus’ Childhood
Have you ever wondered what Jesus’ life was like when He was growing up? I have….
What Do You Know About Your Roots?
Ever wonder about your roots? Tried to trace your ancestry? Your roots connect you with a larger whole. Finding those connections can give you a profound sense of “belonging.”…
Map or Compass?
Did you ever try to run away from home as a kid? I didn’t. But as an adult, sometimes I’ve wanted to run away from life. That’s how Hagar felt when she ran away—both times….
When David Talked to Himself and God at the Same Time
Last week, life was a mess. New health issues threatened me, a client discriminated against me, more friends buried loved ones, and I was like, “Really? Again? Still?” So God in His goodness nudged me toward Psalm 62….
When David Talked to Himself and God at the Same TimeRead More
They Came So Close
If you were outdoors at the right time this past week (June 17–27), you could see five planets align in sky about an hour before dawn. In ancient times, such an alignment portended a massive upheaval, like a change of government or religion. This planetary performance peaked on June 24, with the moon additionally pairing with Uranus (visible halfway between Venus and Mars). Draw whatever conclusion you want regarding the significance of that date in light of current events….
God is 55 Miles Closer than You Know
A church misconception is that if you’re “godly,” your faith won’t falter. I beg to differ….
Who Comforts God When He Cries?
A four-year-old came to his mom, tears coursing down his face. “I have too many sads in my eyes!” he cried. (What description could be more perfect?) In reply, his mom hugged him tight and loved on him, making the sads all better….
What God Does With Your Ugly
In my read-straight-through-the Bible effort, I’m almost through the book of Judges. It is UGLY. “And the Israelites did evil in the sight of the Lord”—on repeat. I asked God if I could skip Judges. Seriously. Of course, I knew the answer before I asked. Every word of the Bible is there for a reason….
